Plot Summary:(As seen on Anime News Network) Two years have passed since Hei and Yin escaped the Syndicate after the events of the first season. Making their way to Russia, Hei encounters a young girl named Suou Pavlichenko, whose family is gradually pulled into the war between contractors and various intelligence factions. Meanwhile, Misaki Kirihara has quit her position in Foreign Affairs to begin her own investigations into Hei, the Contractors and the Syndicate.

Analysis: For those who have never seen the first season of Darker than Black, I hope this review will shed some light on the anime and encourage those to view the first season. For those who have just found out about Darker than Black through its second season, Gemini of the Meteor, you’ll be lost. The entire first season of the anime built upon the world in which the series takes place for the first half of the season. Each main character is given a fair share of air time that developes their characters and what they stand for. The series eventually moves into the main plot and climax as more characters are introduced. As stated above, the second series takes place two years after the events of season one. What is very misleading in the synopsis that you can find on animnewsnetwork.com is that Hei and Yin, despite the synopsis description, are no longer together. If this comes a spoiler to those I apologize, but as I heard about this second season I was looking forward to seeing Hei and Yin once again as partners. However, the story centers on a new character known as Suou. Her story is complex and very interesting and is directly linked to Hei and Yin in a very interesting way. What is so captivating about this series is its excellent use of dark atmosphere combined with subtle humor (very subtle), and gripping story. Hei’s character is portrayed so well by Hidenobu Kiuchi in how he shows effection, but while still maintaining that cold exterior that doesn’t anything get close. Suou is the perfect counter balance in this and works very well with Hei’s character. Kana Hanazawa is the talented actress that brings Suou to life on screen and brings out the character well, capturing the confused teen character that she was born to play. Even so, anyone that enjoys a gripping story that is filled with great plot twists and enjoyable characters will get a kick out of Darker than Black. Naturally if you have already seen season one, you must take a look at season two.

Another note is the music. Kouji Ishii makes an appearnce for the music in season two and the unique blend of rock and the dark undertone given to the background is just what the series needs. Not to say that Yoko Kanno didn’t do a fantastic job in season two, but the change was proven to be just as good, if not better. The beat and music choices are prefect and Hei’s theme is really something to behold. It just tells the viewers before they even see him that he is going to kick ass when ever he’s on screen. I’ll no more as the series continues, but for now, the music stands as a fantastic score.

On another note, this season hasn’t been slated for an american release as of yet. Season one can be found where ever DVDs are sold and is quite affordable. The quality of the acting in the English Dub I can’t comment given I’ve yet to hear the voices. Over the years Dubs have gotten much better and Funimation is probably the best company to get a Dub these days. I would hope given Funimation ported over the first season they will in time bring over the second after it finishes its run in Japan. As of yet the series has only reached episode 10 with 11 due to air shortly. If you own the DVDs of Darker than Black there really is no reason to not get season two, since it’s worth every penny.

In closing I’ll say this: Darker than Black is a must see for any anime fan. The thrilling story and excellent cast of characters will keep you entertained to the end. If you’re on the fence with the series, do more research if you wish. I’m but one man telling those who enjoy good animes that Darker than Black is a series that shouldn’t go unseen. To those jumping on the band wagon, season two won’t give you much recap at all from the previous season and even viewers who have seen season one will have difficulty keeping up. I almost suggest you watch season one over before starting Gemini of the Meteor. So, if you found out about this anime late, take up the first season for jumping into season two will only put you in a bad spot. Otherwise, this series is worth your time and energy to look into.

Overall Rating: A+ (A must see)